The short answer
Safety First
Before anything else, get everyone out of the flooded area. Floodwater can hide electrical hazards, sharp debris, and harmful bacteria. If you smell gas or see downed power lines, leave the building and call the utility company from a safe spot. Do not wade into standing water if you are unsure about the source.
Once people are safe, turn off the main power switch if you can reach it without stepping into water. Shut off the water supply to stop more water from entering. If you cannot do either safely, wait for the pros. Your safety matters more than saving equipment or inventory.
Document the Damage
Take photos and videos of everything that got wet, including machines, floors, walls, and stored materials. Note the date and time of the flood, and keep a list of damaged items. This record helps with your insurance claim, but remember: policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Do not throw away anything until you have documented it and checked with your insurance company. If you need to move items to dry them, keep them in a separate area. This step is often overlooked, but it can save you a lot of hassle later.
- Photograph each room and piece of equipment
- List serial numbers and model names
- Keep receipts for any cleaning supplies you buy
- Note the water level on walls and posts
- Save samples of wet carpet or drywall if possible
Start Drying Quickly
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours, so begin drying as soon as it is safe. Open windows if the outdoor air is drier than inside, and use fans to move air. Remove standing water with a wet/dry vacuum or mops, but only if the water is clean and you have the right gear.
For large floods, you may need dehumidifiers and air movers that you do not own. That is where local water damage pros can step in. They have industrial equipment to dry walls, floors, and structural cavities. Do not wait too long, because drying gets harder the longer water sits.
Clean and Disinfect
Floodwater can carry sewage, chemicals, and debris. Anything that touched it needs a thorough cleaning. Use a disinfectant that is safe for the surface, and wear gloves, goggles, and a mask. Porous items like drywall, insulation, and some carpets may need to be removed entirely.
Do not try to dry and reuse items that are heavily contaminated, especially if the flood came from a sewer or a natural waterway. When in doubt, throw it out. For electronics and machinery, have a professional inspect them before you plug them back in.
- Wear rubber boots and waterproof gloves
- Use a disinfectant labeled for flood cleanup
- Bag and dispose of soaked drywall or insulation
- Clean hard surfaces with soap and water first
- Rinse with clean water after disinfecting
- Dry the area completely before rebuilding
Know When to Call Pros
If the floodwater is deep, the power is out, or the building feels unstable, call the pros. They have the training and equipment to handle water extraction, structural drying, and mold prevention. In Rockwall, you can contact the pros for help with cleanup and restoration, but the work depends on your specific situation.
For a flooded crawl space or slab foundation, emergency water extraction is often the first step. Then, structural drying and dehumidification can help prevent long-term damage. If you have drywall or flooring that got wet, removal and repair may be necessary. Always ask about the process and what to expect before any work begins.
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Call Now (469) 698-4610Frequently asked questions
How soon should I clean up after a flood?
Start as soon as it is safe, ideally within 24 to 48 hours. Mold can begin growing quickly, so the sooner you remove water and start drying, the less damage you will have. If you cannot do it yourself, call the pros right away to avoid further issues.
Can I save wet equipment?
Some equipment can be saved if it is dried and cleaned properly, but it depends on the type and how long it was wet. Do not plug in anything until a professional has inspected it. Porous items like wood or fabric may need to be replaced if they are contaminated.
What should I do with soaked drywall?
Soaked drywall usually needs to be removed because it can hold moisture and grow mold. Cut it above the water line and dispose of it. After the area is dry, you can install new drywall. This is a job for the pros if the flood was large or the water was contaminated.